Best Boston to Santa Rosa Movers + Moving Guide

Want help with the heavy lifting?

Get a quote now.

If you're moving from Boston to Santa Rosa and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 3,201 mile move from Massachusetts to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 54 Boston to Santa Rosa moving companies and more than 20,000 movers nationwide to provide up-to-date and data-driven information about: which moving company to hire (our top recommendation is Stairhopper Movers), how much the move costs (approximately $3,000 - $11,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Boston compared to Santa Rosa. With a move this big, you want big data on your side and Great Guys Moving is your trusted ally to help you sift through the noise to make informed moving decisions.

Best Boston to Santa Rosa Interstate Movers Featured Image

Best Boston to Santa Rosa Moving Companies

RankCompany NameRating QuestionAffordability IndexLicenseContact
1Stairhopper Movers9.669.62Authorized For HHGContact
2OCD Moving Services LLC9.669.47Authorized For HHGContact
3Centaur Moving9.609.79Authorized For HHGContact
4Intelligent labor & Moving9.519.55Authorized For Property, HHGContact
5Celis Movers9.379.32Authorized For HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428

Cost to Move from Boston to Santa Rosa

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 3,201 miles from Boston, MA to Santa Rosa, CA will cost on average $4,503 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Boston to Santa Rosa move is roughly $10,898. See the chart below for a detailed breakdown by type of move and home size. Pricing will vary based upon the exact locations of pickup and dropoff as well as several other factors. The most important pricing component that is often overlooked is how far away the move date is. The earlier you can reserve movers, the better your pricing and options will be.

Home SizeMoving CostVolume of Packed Items (ft³)$/ft³
Studio$3,017300 ft³10.06
1 Bedroom$4,503450 ft³10.01
2 Bedrooms$7,468750 ft³9.96
3 Bedrooms$10,8981100 ft³9.91
4 Bedrooms$15,7721600 ft³9.86
5+ Bedrooms$17,6531800 ft³9.81
*Please note: These Massachusetts to California moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from Massachusetts & California. The volume listed here represents the estimated cubic footage of your household items when packed and loaded into a moving truck. To determine the exact costs associated with your move, get a quote from a licensed MA to CA mover.
Massachusetts iconArrow iconCalifornia icon
U-turn icon

Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Santa Rosa to Boston guide.

Compare the 5 Best Boston to Santa Rosa Movers

These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

Stairhopper Movers Logo

Stairhopper Movers

Exceptional9.66/10
based on 9,261+ data points

20 Harvard St

Boston, MA, 2129

About Stairhopper Movers

Since 2001, Stairhopper Movers has operated as a Boston-based local moving company that performs local and long-distance residential and commercial moves....

Services

  • Local moves
  • Long distance moves
  • Commercial moves

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1696867 / 623045

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans21
Registered Drivers22
Total Annual Miles Moved261,200 (2022)
View Full Review
1
OCD Moving Services LLC Logo

OCD Moving Services LLC

Exceptional9.66/10
based on 3,273+ data points

5914 Cobblestone Ct

El Sobrante, CA, 94803

About OCD Moving Services LLC

For over five years, OCD Moving Services LLC has been providing Oakland and the Bay Area with residential and commercial relocation...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Commercial Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2597230 / 911812

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers6
Total Annual Miles Moved153,000 (2022)
View Full Review
2
Centaur Moving Logo

Centaur Moving

Exceptional
claimed company icon
9.60/10
based on 1,675+ data points

171 Windsor St

Cambridge, MA, 02139

About Centaur Moving

Centaur Moving, based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, is a fully licensed and insured moving company with services for local and nationwide moves....

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Commercial Relocations

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3638077 / 1249051

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers3
Total Annual Miles Moved20,000 (2022)
View Full Review
3
Intelligent labor & Moving Logo

Intelligent labor & Moving

Exceptional9.51/10
based on 1,979+ data points

18 Beck Rd

Arlington, MA, 2476

About Intelligent labor & Moving

Established in 2005, Intelligent Labor & Moving is a moving and storage company serving residential and corporate clients in the communities...

Services

  • Local moving services
  • Long-distance and interstate moving services
  • Cheap moving rates with two or three movers

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2065664 / 725481

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans8
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved43,583 (2023)
View Full Review
4
Celis Movers Logo

Celis Movers

Exceptional9.37/10
based on 1,982+ data points

601 Petaluma Blvd N C

Petaluma, CA, 94952

About Celis Movers

Celis Movers is a family-owned Petaluma business committed to providing quality moves that don’t break the bank. For over 30 years,...

Services

  • Local moving services
  • Nationwide moving services
  • Strategic warehousing locations

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2594954 / 921948

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved95,000 (2023)
View Full Review
5
Rankings You Can Trust background image
Trust Rankings icon

Dependable Rankings You Can Count On!

Our rankings are data-driven — movers cannot purchase a spot on our list. Here's why you can have confidence in our recommendations:

  • No Paid Placements: Every company earns its spot through merit, not payment.
  • Extensive Analysis: Evaluated over 24,000 movers across the country for our rankings.

Boston vs. Santa Rosa Neighborhood Comparison

Moving from one city to another can feel like stepping into a new world. To ease the transition, we compare Boston, MA & Santa Rosa, CA local neighborhoods , helping you find areas with familiar vibes. Whether you're looking for vibrant street life, peaceful retreats, or family-friendly zones, we've got you covered.

BostonSanta RosaHow They're Similar
Back BayMontecito HeightsHistoric homes, chic boutiques
Beacon HillProctor TerraceCharming, with a strong sense of community
South EndRidgway Historic DistrictDiverse, artsy vibe
North EndDowntown Santa RosaRich history, excellent restaurants
FenwayJunior College NeighborhoodYouthful, energetic atmosphere
Jamaica PlainOakmontGreen spaces, community-focused
CharlestownBennett ValleyFamily-friendly, with a sense of history
South BostonCoffey ParkVibrant, friendly, with a strong local scene
DorchesterRoselandDiverse, with a rich cultural fabric
Allston-BrightonWest End Santa RosaYouthful energy, with cultural diversity

If you're drawn to the historic and picturesque streets of Beacon Hill, with its quintessential brick homes and gas-lit lamps, you'll find a similar charm in Proctor Terrace. It boasts a warm community atmosphere alongside beautifully preserved homes. Meanwhile, fans of South End's trendy cafes, art studios, and bustling markets will love the Ridgway Historic District in Santa Rosa for its wonderful diversity and artsy vibe, encapsulated at places like Ridgway Historic District. For those who enjoy the youthful and lively spirit of Fenway, the Junior College Neighborhood offers an energizing mix of activities, underscored by educational institutions and community initiatives, making it a beacon for both students and professionals alike.

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Boston to Santa Rosa

Moving from one city to another can significantly impact your lifestyle. This guide compares moving from Boston, MA to Santa Rosa, CA , highlighting the benefits and drawbacks of each location. Our charts aim to shed light on the differences, helping you make an informed decision about your relocation.

CONs
PROs
Boston, MA iconBoston, MA
  • Higher cost of living
  • Harsh winters
  • Urban congestion
  • Smaller green spaces
Santa Rosa, CA iconSanta Rosa, CA
  • Lower cost of living
  • Milder climate
  • Less traffic
  • More nature parks
Santa Rosa, CA iconSanta Rosa, CA
  • Less historical sites
  • Smaller cultural scene
  • More car dependency
  • Narrower job field
Boston, MA iconBoston, MA
  • Rich history
  • Vibrant culture
  • Extensive public transit
  • Diverse job market

While Boston is recognized for its vibrant cultural scene, rich history, and extensive public transit system, Santa Rosa offers a compelling alternative with its milder climate, less urban congestion, and more accessible nature parks such as Spring Lake Regional Park and Pepperwood Preserve. Though you might miss the historical sites like the Freedom Trail or the vast job opportunities in the tech and education sectors Boston is known for, Santa Rosa presents a tranquil, nature-infused lifestyle. Popular areas include the Railroad Square Historic District, where you can enjoy local restaurants like Stark's Steak & Seafood, offering a new community and career opportunities in sectors like wine production and healthcare. Moving from Boston to Santa Rosa means trading the bustling urban life and diverse job market for a slower-paced, nature-centric lifestyle with its own unique opportunities.

Boston vs. Santa Rosa Food Guide

This comparison of the local cuisine between Boston, MA & Santa Rosa, CA is designed to help you understand the food scene in your new city. Recognizing food as a vital part of local culture and living experience, this overview aims to inform you about the culinary differences and similarities between these two places.

BostonSanta Rosa
Most iconic local food itemClam ChowderWine Country Cuisine
Most popular meat dishLobster RollGrilled Tri-tip
Most popular street food itemCannoliTacos
Most popular vegan foodQuinoa SaladAvocado Toast
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Union Oyster House
  • Neptune Oyster
  • Mamma Maria
  • Russian River Brewing Company
  • Stark's Steak & Seafood
  • LoCoco's Cucina Rustica
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

When moving from Boston to Santa Rosa, you'll find that the local cuisine shifts from the seafood-heavy dishes like Clam Chowder and Lobster Rolls, deeply rooted in Boston's maritime heritage, to a more diverse offering in Santa Rosa, influenced heavily by its location in California's Wine Country. Santa Rosa celebrates a farm-to-table ethos, with Wine Country Cuisine revolving around fresh, local ingredients paired meticulously with local wines. Moreover, Santa Rosa's food scene boasts an impressive array of vegan options, like the popular Avocado Toast, indicative of the city's health-conscious lifestyle. For those looking to indulge in the local food scene, Downtown Santa Rosa's Russian River Brewing Company and Stark's Steak & Seafood provide a taste of Sonoma County's finest, while the abundance of food trucks offers a casual yet diverse eating experience.

Boston vs. Santa Rosa Restaurant Comparison

Food plays a crucial role in making a new area feel like home. If you're moving from Boston, MA, to Santa Rosa, CA, this restaurant comparison chart aims to ease your transition by matching your beloved Boston eateries with their Santa Rosa counterparts. Familiar flavors can help bridge the gap between the old and the new, helping you discover your next favorite dining spots.

BostonSanta RosaWhat You'll Love
Neptune OysterWilli's Seafood & Raw BarFresh seafood and lively atmosphere
Mamma MariaRiviera RistoranteTraditional Italian dishes in a cozy setting
Mike's PastryMiracle PlumArtisanal bakery with a local twist
ToroLa Gare French RestaurantUpscale dining with a focus on quality ingredients
Bostonia Public HousePerch + PlowModern American cuisine in a chic urban space
Union Oyster HouseThe Spinster SistersKnown for their innovative and eclectic dishes
Lolita Cocina & Tequila BarEl Coqui Puerto Rican CuisineAuthentic flavors with a vibrant atmosphere
Regina PizzeriaRosso Pizzeria & Wine BarArtisan pizzas with a Californian flair
Tatte Bakery & CaféAcre CoffeeGreat coffee and pastries in a comfortable setting
OleanaKhoom LannaExceptional Thai cuisine with a focus on fresh, local produce

Moving from the historical charm of Boston to the vineyard-surrounded landscapes of Santa Rosa might seem like a vast culinary leap, but the essence of dining - savoring delicious foods within vibrant atmospheres - remains the same. Places like Willi's Seafood & Raw Bar echo the fresh, maritime vibes of Neptune Oyster, making the transition softer for seafood lovers. Similarly, the authentic Italian experiences offered by Riviera Ristorante serve as a comforting reminder of meals enjoyed at Mamma Maria. For pastry aficionados missing Mike's Pastry, Miracle Plum presents an array of artisanal baked goods that promise a taste of home, albeit with a local twist. Whether you're craving the robust flavors of hand-tossed pizzas, rich Italian pastas, or freshly baked pastries, Santa Rosa's dining scene is equipped to offer familiar comforts along with new culinary adventures.

CTA Banner background image

Ready to start your move?

Boston vs. Santa Rosa Real Estate & Living Facts

When considering a move, comparing real estate between your current and future home is crucial. Boston, MA and Santa Rosa, CA differ significantly in terms of housing costs, styles, and urban lifestyle . This guide aims to highlight those differences to aid in your decision-making process.

ComparisonBostonSanta Rosa
Typical Architecture StyleVictorian, ColonialCalifornia Modern, Craftsman
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingProximity to Public Transportation, Historic DetailsVineyard Proximity, Open Spaces

Boston offers a bustling urban lifestyle with excellent walkability, making it perfect for those who love city life and have an appreciation for historical architecture like Victorian and Colonial-style homes. On the other hand, Santa Rosa, located in the heart of wine country, presents a more laid-back lifestyle with its California Modern and Craftsman homes, emphasizing open spaces and proximity to vineyards. This distinct difference in vibe and architecture is crucial for future homeowners to consider, along with the fact that Boston's higher cost of living and rent reflects its urban density and East Coast location, whereas Santa Rosa offers a slightly more affordable and spacious living environment.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Santa Rosa, CA

1. Montgomery Village: With its numerous pathways and the nearby Howarth Park, your furry friends will enjoy countless hours of outdoor activity and socializing.

2. Oakmont: This neighborhood is known for its hiking club and proximity to Annadel State Park, offering expansive areas for you and your pets to explore the great outdoors together.

3. Bennett Valley: Home to the Galvin Community Park, which features a dedicated dog park where your pets can run free and socialize with other dogs in a safe and friendly environment.

Boston vs. Santa Rosa Weather Considerations

Moving from one city to another involves adapting to new weather patterns. This comparison between Boston, MA and Santa Rosa, CA highlights key differences to help you understand what to expect. Knowing the weather conditions you'll face is crucial for a smooth transition.

Summer icon
82°F / 65°F

Boston, MA

82°F / 52°F

Santa Rosa, CA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
37°F / 22°F

Boston, MA

60°F / 40°F

Santa Rosa, CA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
43.8"

Boston, MA

30.2"

Santa Rosa, CA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
48"

Boston, MA

0"

Santa Rosa, CA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonBostonSanta Rosa
Air QualityGood to ModerateGood to Moderate
Natural DisastersBlizzards, Nor'eastersEarthquakes, Wildfires
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

Shifting from Boston to Santa Rosa involves adjusting to milder winters and enjoying more days of sunshine annually. While Boston experiences significant snowfall, in Santa Rosa, snow is virtually unheard of. Moreover, Santa Rosa's higher average UV index means you'll likely need to integrate more sun protection into your daily routine. The threat of natural disasters shifts from winter storms in Boston to earthquakes and wildfires in California, underscoring the importance of preparing for different types of emergencies when relocating.

Ready to start your move?

Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Boston to Santa Rosa

If you're planning a move, it's essential to grasp how the cost of living in Boston and Santa Rosa will impact your finances. This comparison will help prepare you for the financial adjustments needed when transitioning from one city to another.

ComparisonBostonSanta Rosa
Avg. Household Income$79,283$86,459
Cost of Living Index132.5136.4
State Income Tax513.3
Avg. Property Tax1.20.79
Avg. Sales Tax6.258.75
Top 3 IndustriesEducation, Healthcare, FinanceWine, Tourism, Healthcare
AffluenceHighModerate
PovertyModerateModerate
HomelessnessHighHigh

Moving from Boston to Santa Rosa will bring financial changes, particularly in the average household income and cost of living. While the average income in Boston is higher, Santa Rosa offers a slightly lower cost of living. However, the higher state income tax in California might offset some of these benefits. The property tax in Santa Rosa is significantly lower than in Boston, which could be advantageous for home buyers. Moreover, the sales tax in Santa Rosa is higher, reflecting California's overall tax structure. Despite these differences, both cities share moderate to high levels of poverty and homelessness, highlighting broader socio-economic challenges.

Boston vs. Santa Rosa Political & Religious Comparison

When considering a move from Boston, MA to Santa Rosa, CA, understanding the comparison of the politics between Boston & Santa Rosa alongside the religious landscape is paramount. This quick snapshot aims to provide a glance at the political and religious makeup of these communities, helping you grasp the cultural milieu you're moving into.

BostonSanta Rosa
Political Make-upLiberalLiberal
Local PoliticsDemocratic DominanceDemocratic Lean
ReligionVaried, with a Catholic MajorityDiverse, Less Religious Overall

In both Boston and Santa Rosa, the political landscape is predominantly liberal, though the specific local political scene can vary. Boston tends to have a stronger Democratic dominance within its local politics, reflecting the city’s long-standing historical ties to the Democratic Party. Santa Rosa, while also leaning Democratic, might present a more varied political scene influenced by its West Coast setting. Religion plays a different role in each city; Boston's population includes a significant Catholic majority amidst its diverse religious community. In contrast, Santa Rosa is known for its more diverse and less religiously affiliated population, reflecting broader trends across California. This could mean a different community atmosphere when it comes to religious institutions and public expressions of faith.

Boston vs. Santa Rosa Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Boston, MA to Santa Rosa, CA, it's important to understand the differences in daily commute and traffic. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Boston & Santa Rosa will help you better prepare for what to expect.

ComparisonBostonSanta Rosa
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)3022
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?YesMore challenging

In Boston, you'll find a robust public transportation system with the MBTA, encompassing subways, buses, and even ferries, making it quite feasible to navigate the city without a personal vehicle. The higher traffic congestion reflects the city's dense layout and active economy. On the other hand, Santa Rosa, while boasting less traffic congestion, has a public transit system that isn't as extensive. This makes owning a car more of a necessity for convenient daily travel. Considering these factors will significantly influence your adaptation to your new home.

CTA Banner background image
Connect with one of our Certified Moving Partners.
Best Boston to Santa Rosa Movers Featured Image